A news release from the Salvation Army in Kent County says it was forced to end its bell ringing early on Thursday and will likely cancel it today. It’s due to the blizzard like conditions and dangerously low temperatures forecast in West Michigan.
Officials say the bad weather will likely also result in less last-minute Christmas shopping. The combination of no kettles and less shoppers on Friday will impact donations. Grand Valley Area Commander Major Tim Meyer says quote, “The last two days are typically two of the largest donation days,” he adds, “If shoppers are forced to stay home, that will hurt donations significantly, making it almost impossible to meet our $1.7 million dollar goal.”
Officials say bell ringing is scheduled to resume on Christmas Eve day, the last day of the kettle campaign. And Major Meyer says they’re, “concerned”, “but people’s safety is our first and most important concern. All we can do is the best we can and pray for the best results.”
Donations can still be made by mail or online. For more information- go to SAkentcounty.org.
